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Destination shopping -- Portland, Oregon
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Crafters in Austin are very lucky. The city has great stores and guilds and street fairs -- a crafter’s paradise, really. But Austin has very hot summers, so many Austin-ites go north to cooler climates on vacation. One of the best destinations for crafters is Portland, Oregon.
If you are a quilter or sewer, the mecca of fabric stores is Fabric Depot. This store is not for the faint-hearted --it is big, really big. If you have a project in mind, and just can’t find the right fabric, this is the store for you. it’s also a place great wander around for inspiration. There are a lot of knowledgeable people here to help you find just the right fabric or notion for your projects. If you love vintage items check out Knittn Kitten for vintage fabrics notions, and patterns.
If you are a knitter or crocheter, be sure to schedule a yarn crawl. Two stores not to miss are Twisted and Yarnia. Twisted has a great atmosphere for knitters and crocheters. After choosing yarn, you can sit down on a comfortable couch in a sunny location, and start your project. The store has a well-lit table and chairs set up to look for patterns. And the yarn selection is great too. They carry Blue Moon Fiber Arts yarn, Indigo Moon, and a lot of great yarn from indy dyers and spinners. Yarnia is a DIY yarn store. Here you pick out the fibers you want, and they ply them for you. If you can’t find the yarn you want anywhere else, go to Yarnia, and they will build it for you.
If you are looking for beads, try Dava Bead and Trade. This large well-stocked store will help you create the necklace of your dreams. The staff will offer as much assistance as you need.
If you want to see what the Austin Creative Reuse project can become, visit SCRAP, School and Community Reuse Project. Visit the store, or take a workshop, or become a member. It’s a great place.
Make sure to be in Portland on a Saturday because the Saturday Market in downtown Portland is a must see for crafters. All the vendors must make their own wares; there are no importers here. If you want to give hand-made gifts this holiday season, this is the place to find them. Another Portland icon is Powell’s book store. This store occupies several city blocks. Imagine Book People quadrupled, and that’s Powell’s first floor. If you want a knitting, beading, or quilting book, look in the orange room.
Portland has one of the best public transportation systems in the west, so you don’t need a car to visit any of these great places. Consult the TriMet website for routes and schedules.
One last tip: remember to leave some room in your suitcases for all the great stuff you’ll be bringing home.
For more info: Consult the Crafty Map of Portland for store locations.
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